Key Moment: Branch’s big gain helps Patriots gain momentum

For the Patriots, the key moment in Sunday’s win over the Eagles came on the fourth play from scrimmage in the second quarter.

With the Patriots down 10-7 early in the second, New England had the ball, and was facing a third and 13 at its own 36-yard-line. Quarterback Tom Brady evaded the rush, and after catching the eye of veteran Deion Branch, found the receiver streaking down the sideline.

Branch made it all the way down to the Philadelphia one-yard line — running back BenJarvus Green-Ellis plunged over on the next play from scrimmage to give the Patriots a lead they wouldn’t relinquish. After a first quarter that was dominated in many ways by the Eagles, it was also a chance for the Patriots to seize control of the contest, and they were in command the rest of the way.

Branch’s 63-yard reception was his longest since he recorded a 66-yarder at Detroit on Thanksgiving Day last year. In addition, it was was his fifth career reception of 60 yards or more. Branch ended up with six catches for a game-high 125 receiving yards.